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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The University of New Mexico’s men’s tennis program wrapped up day one of the 2013 USTA/ITA Men’s Tennis Mountain Regionals in Las Vegas, Nev.

Colleges from all over the region gathered at the Darling Tennis Center on Wednesday morning to begin the battle for the regional title. The Lobos impressed in the doubles category as they went 4-0 with UNM duos and 1-0 with a mixed schools doubles pair. Bryan Cunningham paired up with Brigham Young’s Nikki Rae due to an odd number of competitors. All nine of the Lobos are advancing to the round of 32 being played on Thursday, Oct. 17.

UNM also came out strong in the first round of singles play. Eight of the nine Lobo competitors advanced to the second round of the 128 draw singles bracket.

They came across a few upsets in the round of 64. After several long-fought three match battles, only Samir Iftikhar and Mitchelle McDaniels are advancing to the next round. Hayden Sabatka and Rodolfo Juaregio both held match points before losing heartbreakers (7-6) in the third match.

“Credit to Mitch and Sam for very workman like performances,” Scott said. “We fought like crazy and came out on top in some and let a few slip through our hands."

The Lobos who are not advancing in main draw play will continue to compete in consolation play for the next four days.